August 6, 2012—AUSTIN—Texas State Senator Jane Nelson-R, Flower Mound, has received distinctions from two organizations dedicated to supporting assisted living providers and residents in Texas.
The Assisted Living Federation of America (ALFA) gave Senator Nelson its Statesman Award, and the Texas Assisted Living Association (TALA) named her “2011 Senator of the Year.” These recognitions honor Senator Nelson’s efforts to promote the care of aging Texans, reduce injuries to the elderly, and improve long-term care services.
“These organizations have been tireless advocates on behalf of long-term care providers and clients,” said Senator Nelson. “We have a responsibility to Texas’ aging population, and it is a true honor to be recognized for our efforts to support them.”
Senator Nelson has sponsored legislation creating a volunteer program to assist families in the care of their elderly. She supported a measure to increase awareness of fall prevention and to reduce the cost of fall-related injuries. Under her leadership, the Legislature has passed measures to improve long-term care services and to increase consumer access to related information.
“Each year the Assisted Living Federation of America honors a state legislator who has made an exceptional commitment to advocate on behalf of senior living residents. Senator Jane Nelson has been a true champion for seniors in Texas, and we are proud to present her with the 2012 ALFA Statesman Award,” said Rick Grimes, President and CEO of ALFA. “Throughout her career, she has stood for improvements in care to the elderly,” said Gail Harmon, Executive Director for TALA.
The Assisted Living Federation of America and its Texas affiliate, the Texas Assisted Living Association, advocate on behalf of assisted living facilities and residents to promote informed choice and quality health care.
Senator Jane Nelson represents District 12, including portions of Tarrant and Denton Counties. She is Chairman of the Senate Committee on Health & Human Services.
From www.tala.org